2. amps-preamps
  3. 187580-166623

another rookie question - preamp or or power amp

I have a decent integrated amp ("decent" - to my ears). SS, 50Watts to 8 Ohms. It  has a preamp output. 

I have been looking at used power amps and preamps in the 2-400 dollar range.  

For example: the Parasound 2125 power amp, the Parasound P3

This is an OR question. Which choice will yield a better improvement,

1) if I put a preamp before my integrated so the integrated acts as the power amp

or 2) if I use my integrated as a preamp to a power amp?

It's also a choice to sell my integrated and save up until I can buy both a power amp and a preamp, but obviously I am itching to try one of the above options. 

My room is 15x13 so I am not sure I need a big power amp (big: 100Watts?)

 

grislybutter
stager
61 posts
 

Preamp has controls, sometimes a phono stage, sends line level.
Power amp takes line level and ramps it up to speaker level.

You need both, though they may be combined in one chassis (integrated amplifier).

 

grislybutter OP
2,997 posts
 

@stuartk I understand. Given how "budget" my current amp is, it could be an improvement though - or so I thought.

I already have had a lot of help here and I think I will be on the right track. 

stuartk
2,779 posts
 

@grislybutter

I already have had a lot of help here and I think I will be on the right track.

Best of luck, then, moving forward!  

 

grislybutter OP
2,997 posts
 

@audiotroy yes the NuPrime looks solid! 

lanx0003
830 posts
 

For my secondary system, I use the Parasound NC 2125 V2 with Zpre3. Absolutely love it.  They work together with great synergy.  You did not disclose what IA you have but I believe Parasound 150 wpc will drive your speaker better than your 50 wpc IA as the amp.

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